Glamping close to Whittier, California offers outdoor accommodations in a region characterized by a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The area sits at elevations ranging from 100 to 1,200 feet above sea level with average summer temperatures in the mid-80s. Multiple camping facilities within a 30-mile radius provide both secluded natural settings and urban-adjacent options with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Beach activities: 20 minutes from shore: At Newport Dunes RV Resort, the shallow lagoon offers water recreation options for the whole family. "They have activities for the kids like arts and crafts, an inflatable obstacle course or you can rent paddle boards or watch a movie on the beach. There are fantastic running/bike trails along the Back Bay," notes Karissa J.
Mountain biking: multiple trail systems: Moro Campground at Crystal Cove State Park connects to extensive trail networks. "Crystal Cove State Park and Laguna Coast Wilderness Park are adjacent to each other, and a small pedestrian gate separates them. The best trail here stretches across the two parks -- No Name Ridge!! Amazing for EPIC SUNSETS!" shares Chanel C.
Fishing opportunities: seasonal catches: Anglers find good spots at Bonelli Bluffs, where the lake supports various activities. "There is camping, horseback riding, fishing, trails, biking, hiking, picnics, you can use your jet skies in designated areas, swimming on the pool areas, kayaking, Park for kids and plenty more. On my adventure I always come here to have a picnic and fish," reports Jessica P.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: dawn and dusk: Early morning and evening hours offer wildlife spotting at Millard Trail Campground. "There are many hiking opportunities and chances to see wildlife (deer, wild turkey, rabbits, squirrels, racoons, and birds). Sites include fire pits, picnic tables, and food storage box," according to Tim J.
Ocean view sites: terraced camping: Crystal Cove State Park offers ocean vistas from tiered campsites. "The sites are terraced, so no matter which site you get you'll have a view of the ocean... The sites are VERY close together so be prepared to meet your neighbors," warns Chanel C. Each row of sites sits higher than the one in front.
Urban proximity with natural setting: Canyon RV Park provides a nature escape without leaving the city. "I have been here for a few months and I love it here. It's not only in the middle of a nature preserve but you're also in the middle of a City. You're nearby to all the stores you could ever need but you're also around a lot of wild life," explains Kerry L.
What you should know
Security and site access varies: Campgrounds maintain different security protocols. Seabreeze At Seal Beach has strict entry requirements. "A hidden gem in the city. This is a military only RV Park. Very clean, cement slab, walking paths well lit and near to many areas to explore," notes Geri J.
Weekend crowds vs. weekday quiet: Some locations become busy on weekends while offering tranquility mid-week. "This place is heavily used for day camping and hiking. There's not a lot of privacy because there's always lots of people passing by who are hiking and biking. You can stay overnight which I did and everything was fine but there's not a lot of privacy," reports one camper at Millard Trail Camp.
Noise considerations: location matters: Highway noise affects certain campgrounds. At Canyon RV Park, "The site is bordered by highways on both sides, and they create noise day and night. They're also clearly visible," notes Christina S. Similarly, Dockweiler Beach RV Park sits near LAX airport flight paths.
Tips for camping with families
Bring water containers: limited access: At many sites like Millard Trail Campground, water sources are limited. "This is more of your traditional campground where you must carry all your food and gear to the campsite. It is a short hike from the parking lot to the camping area and the camp hosts can provide containers to carry your items," explains Tim J.
Consider walk-in vs. drive-up sites: Some campgrounds require gear transport from parking areas. "The campground is off the main road that parallels the bay. It's located just past a meadow... The website will say the sites are 'hike in', but this is not how I'd describe it. Yes, you need to park in the main lot and then carry your gear to the campsite, but it's not really a hike. More like a short walk," clarifies a camper at China Camp State Park.
Wildlife precautions essential: Secure food properly at all locations. "There are coons here so you can't keep any food out when dark comes near!" warns Veronica H. at China Camp, while another camper adds: "The raccoons here are AGGRESSIVE! They won't attack you, but they will walk right up to your camp and try to steal your food."
Tips from RVers
Site measurements can be misleading: Dockweiler Beach RV Park offers different sections for different vehicle sizes. "The RV park has a hookup area and a dry camping area. The hookups are full of large rigs, very close one with another, in a parking lot style. The dry camp provides much more space, but only relatively small RVs," notes Ignasi M.
Reservation planning: book ahead: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. At Newport Dunes, weekends book several months in advance. "This is a very clean and well maintained park with a lot of amenities. This place is very family oriented and the staff is very nice. This location is close to good shopping and great dining options... Be fully aware that these spaces can be very tight," advises Ray S.
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites based on your preference for seclusion or convenience. "We chose Bonelli for our shakedown trip in our new trailer (first time RVers). SO quiet. Numerous residents, but spots are mostly keep up nicely. Our rental spot has 3 trees, a picnic table, a firepit, level parking(!) and full hookups," shares Aostara K.
